How is current loss due to hysteresis typically described?

Current loss due to hysteresis is best described as an energy loss due to lag. This phenomenon occurs in magnetic materials when they are subjected to alternating magnetic fields. As these materials are magnetized and demagnetized, they experience energy losses that are associated with the internal friction caused by the movement of magnetic domains. This lag between the applied magnetic field and the magnetization is what results in hysteresis, leading to a cyclical energy loss that manifests as heat.

Hysteresis loss is particularly significant in applications involving transformers, inductors, and magnetic cores, as it represents a form of wasted energy that does not contribute to the useful work being done in the circuit. Understanding this loss is crucial for optimizing the efficiency of electronic components that operate with alternating currents.